Town of Chance 5:Sweet Caroline(45)
Shelby had an expression that showed her frustration as well as surprise by Caroline’s forwardness.
She leaned back.
“It was a nightmare. I was so stupid,” she said and began to explain what went down in the office.
“Oh my God, Shelby, that was way more than a kiss. He touched you down there.”
“I stopped him.”
“But you didn’t want him to stop, did you?” she asked.
Shelby covered her mouth and seemed like she was going to cry but then got all serious, hard, and cold again.
“No. I can never do that with any man again. It’s just the way it needs to be,” she said and stood up. So did Caroline.
“What? Why? Because Skip was abusive and in the military? You’re the one who has been telling me to trust my instincts and to accept this town and what it has to offer, and how women are protected by the men. Kenneth, Sam, and Bender want to claim you and be your guardians and you won’t let them. What is really holding you back?”
“Skip. He is out there. I know he is, and I won’t put these guys, this town in any danger because of the mistakes I made.”
“Well what the hell does that say about me then? Cameron could be out there looking for me. Hell, he could show up and then what? So really you think I shouldn’t have slept with C.J., Hunter, and York? You think I’ve put them in danger?”
“No. Cameron is different than Skip.”
Caroline widened her eyes and gasped. “Cameron is a cop, Shelby, with resources and abilities that none of us even know about. He’s well trained and violent. He won’t stop looking for me and when and if he finds me…I don’t know what I’ll do,” she said as the tears filled her eyes but she swallowed them down, refusing to cry or be in fear.
“I’m not comparing. It’s just a different situation and I had different experiences. Hell, Caroline, things happened that I never told you. I was trying to hide and protect you from him, too, and you were trying so hard to find love and companionship. We both made mistakes that we have to live with. The scars run deep, and the emotions are raw. You’re moving on because of the help of this town, and of the Mantel brothers. I’m nowhere near that point and I’ve come to realize and accept that I may never be. So please, just respect my need to be alone and to not get involved with any man or men. It’s how I feel.”
“I’m sorry, Shelby. I have no right to make you feel bad for your decisions. I just want you to be happy and to feel like what I feel right now.”
Shelby smiled and then walked closer.
“You’re my sister and my best friend. I love you always and I’m so happy for you.” She hugged her tight and they both remained that way for a moment.
“Maybe someday you’ll let go like I did and give a man a chance to prove he’s not like Skip and can love you fears, scars, and all,” Caroline said and her sister smiled but it didn’t reach her eyes.
“Maybe,” she said and then tugged on Caroline’s hair and she giggled.
“So, grilled cheese tomato sandwiches for lunch?” she asked.
“Yes, but I’ll make them. You nearly burned the bread the last time,” Shelby teased.
“I did not,” Caroline scolded and then followed her sister into the kitchen smiling and feeling blessed to have her in her life and sharing all these moments together.
* * * *
Cameron’s plan was in motion. He wanted everything to be perfect. He splurged and rented a private house on a lake. It was big and beautiful and secluded. As he fixed up the bedroom and arranged a series of candles around it the way Caroline would like, he looked out the window at the view of the woods. It was gorgeous. He had the windows opened a little because it was warmer here than up north, and the smell of the woods and fresh air was a nice touch.
Chance was two exits down the highway. He planned on checking it out today and to see Caroline. He knew she may be a bit upset at seeing him. Perhaps it would be better to get her alone at the house she shared with her sister? He would make the decision later. He walked over to the duffel bag and pulled out the handcuffs and rope. In case she was defiant, he would need to ensure she didn’t try to run off. He had a lot of convincing to do and if she was too defiant, a firm hand and some discipline would be in order.
He smiled to himself as he stood there in jeans, a T-shirt, and his gun on his waist. He pulled on the hooded sweatshirt to cover his revolver and smiled. “By tonight, you’ll be back in my bed where you belong, Caroline.”
* * * *
C.J. lifted Caroline up and twirled her around. She was laughing and filled with joy as she just beat C.J. in a round of tennis.